If you’re lucky enough to live in an apartment home that comes with outdoor space, there are so many ways to take full advantage of it. On this week's blog, we are sharing our top tips to make the most of it!

Pull Up a Seat
Make your outdoor space functional by adding chairs or other seating options. This is a great opportunity to adapt this space to your needs. If you enjoy hosting, perhaps adding a bench or a couple of chairs makes sense. If you’re transforming the space into your own personal oasis, select an oversized statement chair you can relax in. Whatever you choose, be intentional about picking options that align with how you want to spend time there.  

Add Greenery
Even though the outdoors has plenty of greenery to offer, your apartment home might be a few floors up or your view might not be ideal. This is your opportunity to add some more plants! Hanging plants, potted plants, and over-the-railing plants are all great options. Having plants around the house can be beneficial on many levels (read more about that here!), and it also gives you an opportunity to work on your green thumb. Make sure to check your lease for rules about over the railing or hanging plants. 

Keep it Private
While we love our neighbors and neighborhoods, sometimes a little extra privacy is warranted. You could utilize temporary items such as a standing garden between you and your neighbor. Some apartment communities will also allow you to add a temporary screen, but be sure to check your lease and get it approved by your manager ahead of time so you don’t spend money on something you can’t use.  

Incorporate Color
A great way to make a smaller space pop is to add a bold color, especially in an urban area where you might be looking at a lot of concrete. Adding bright furniture or accent pieces can give a smaller, outdoor space a big punch and feel more inviting. Have fun with it and don’t take it too seriously! 

However you choose to decorate, the key is to make it feel aligned with how you want to spend your time there. If you start there, you’ll be sure to create a space you can actually enjoy through the seasons.

The post How to Create the Perfect Outdoor Space for Your Apartment Home appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

After you’ve found your dream apartment, the next step is making sure you fully understand and agree with your lease agreement. While some parts of the agreement may seem obvious, like how much your monthly rent payment is, there are some things to specifically look out for that will help you during the term of your lease. In today’s blog, we’re highlighting them for you!  

When is the rent due? Which payment method is required?

One of the most important parts of your lease agreement is knowing when your rental payment is due and the preferred way to submit it. This is vital for your budgeting practices and if you need to coordinate an alternative form of payment, you’ll want to be prepared. 

What’s the length of the lease agreement?

While a typical lease agreement lasts for 12 months, some properties offer 6 or 18 month agreements. Make sure you’re aware of, and OK with, the timeframe of your agreement. If you know you’ll be relocating after a year, for instance, you’ll want to be sure the length of your lease doesn’t exceed 12 months. 

Is rental insurance and liability insurance required?

If your lease agreement requires you to purchase renters insurance and liability insurance (and most do), you’ll want time to shop around for the best rates for your policy. Plus, some properties won’t let you move in until you’re able to show proof you’re fully covered! 

What’s the protocol around parking?

If you’re moving to an area in which cars are needed to get around, you’ll want to be sure you know the process for parking. Find out if there are designated parking spots, if you need a parking pass, or if you need to register your vehicle with the property manager. If you plan to have guests, make sure you’re aware of the guest parking protocol as well. 

Are there any personalization restrictions?

Painting, holes in walls, and other permanent or semi-permanent decorations may not be allowed under the terms of your lease agreement. Before you reach for the paint brush or the hammer, take a good look at what’s allowed and maybe consider removable options, like tape strips or removable wallpaper. 
 

By understanding the terms of your lease agreement, you’ll be able to make the most out of your stay in your apartment home. You won’t be faced with any unexpected issues and you’ll be better able to plan for your expenses and lifestyle plans. Plus, you’ll establish an open line of communication between you and your landlord. Happy asking!

The post Questions to Ask Your Landlord Before You Sign a Lease appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

Keeping your apartment cool and comfortable can become a challenge as temperatures rise. However, there are plenty of ways to beat the heat without running up your energy bills. Here are some practical tips to help you stay cool this summer.
 

Close Curtains and Blinds

Keep curtains and blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun’s heat. Consider using blackout curtains for extra insulation. 
 

Limit Heat-Producing Activities

Avoid using the oven and stove during the hottest hours. Opt for no-cook meals or use a microwave, slow cooker, or grill instead.
 

Use Natural Ventilation

Open windows during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and late evening, to let in fresh air. Close them when temperatures rise to keep the cool air inside.
 

Switch to LED Bulbs

Traditional incandescent bulbs generate a lot of heat. Replace them with energy-efficient LED bulbs that produce less heat and use less electricity.
 

Cool Down with Water

Take cool showers, use damp washcloths on your skin, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. 

Summer apartment living doesn't have to mean sweltering heat and skyrocketing energy bills. By implementing these simple tips, you can create a more comfortable and enjoyable living space. Stay cool, stay comfortable, and make the most of your summer without breaking a sweat!

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If you’re on the hunt for your dream apartment home, today’s blog is for you. There are a number of elements that you may not have considered during your search. On today's blog we are sharing some of our top ones to add to your list. 
 

How important is location? 

While on your dream apartment home search, you’d most likely have your city narrowed down, but have you determined where exactly you’d like your new home to be? In the city or on the outskirts? In a specific neighborhood? Is there a central location you need to be close to? Are you close to public transport links?  
 

Which floor do you want to live on?

 If you have an option of which floor to live on, make sure you choose wisely! There’s benefits to every type of floor: bottom, middle, or top. The bottom floor gives you freedom to dance around at all hours of the day without worrying about the neighbors below hearing you. It also gives you quicker access to being in and out than having to take stairs or the elevator which can be particularly important if you have a dog. A middle floor apartment home avoids street noise and because of its location in the building, provides more consistent temperatures. And the top floor likely has the best views without the inconvenience of noisy upstairs neighbors. All options have benefits, it’s just deciding what’s best for you.  
 

What’s the difference between end units and middle units? 

Once you decide which floor you’d like to live on, it’s time to decide between an end unit or a middle unit. End units commonly provide more privacy as there are fewer shared walls and you might even have a little more sunlight from the additional windows. However, this could lead to a slightly higher price point. Middle units will have two neighbors sharing walls with you, but they likely don’t come at the price of an end unit. You get to decide where your priorities lie. 
 

Does it fit your personality? 

It’s important to make sure your new home really meshes with your personality. If the layout and features don’t speak to you, you’ll have a hard time calling it your dream apartment home! For example, if you find an apartment home that has lots of walls vs. an open living plan, it can make a huge difference to your day to day life. Really think about how you live your life and if the space you’re touring can support it.  
 

Does the price tag fit your lifestyle? 

One of the most important things to consider when looking for your dream apartment home is to make sure the cost of living aligns with your budget. It’s crucial that the cost of rent is sustainable not only with your lease agreement but for your well-being. You don’t want to have to stress each month about the financial part of being a renter!

The post Things to Consider When Searching for a New Apartment Home appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

One of the best parts of moving into a new apartment is inviting all your friends and family to a housewarming party! But now that you’re in a new, shared community space, there are a few extra things to consider aside from hors d’oeuvre and party games. Here’s where we would start.

Start off on the right foot by being considerate of your new neighbors. One option is to give them a quick heads-up that you’ll be having a few guests over. Let them know the date and time so they won’t be alarmed if there’s some extra noise or commotion. And if you feel like it could be a good connection, you can always invite them to join you.  
 

Be mindful of music and noise. Not only is a good playlist vital to a successful party, but when you live in an apartment community, so is the content of the music and the noise. Make sure the profanities are limited, and that the message of your music is appropriate for any and all audiences who may hear it. Also, keep an eye (or ear) on the volume. While your neighbors are fine with mild noise, it's best not to test the limits by blasting your speaker at full volume. 
 

Be intentional with your guest list. Overcrowding can be a safety concern, so the size of your apartment should determine how many people you can invite. Alternatively, you could host a couple of housewarming parties and invite certain groups of people on different days. You just want to be mindful of giving your guests enough space to mingle and enjoy themselves.  
 

Add alternative seating. Consider bringing in alternative seating, like stools, pillows, ottomans, and other functional seating for your guests. 
 

Stock up on supplies. Nothing is more unfortunate at a housewarming party than running out of toilet paper, food, and other essentials. Be sure to have enough supplies, so you’re not caught off guard on the day. 
 

Set a firm end time. This is especially important if your apartment community has firm quiet hours. This will also help you to make sure all of your guests leave in a timely manner and give you time to clear your home after they leave. Plus, it’s another way to be considerate to your neighbors.
 

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to host a great housewarming party and keep the other members of your apartment community happy. Happy housewarming!

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You’re about to embark on a well-deserved trip. Everything on your to-do list is complete, except 

for how to prepare your rental while you’re away on vacation. In today’s blog, we’ll walk you through some important steps to complete before you depart.

1. Let your landlord know you’ll be leaving your apartment for an extended period of time.

Depending on your lease agreement, this could be mandatory. Letting your landlord know you’ll be gone is a courtesy to them and could be helpful if any building emergencies occur while you are away. 

2. Set your thermostat.

It’s important to check your lease agreement to see if your landlord requires the thermostat to be set at a minimum temperature while you are away. Some places require the temperature to be set to at least 55 degrees, especially if you live in a cold-weather climate.

If your lease agreement doesn’t specify a required temperature, set it to a temperature that is appropriate so you’re not wasting energy when there are no people in your apartment. Plus, this could save you some money!

3. Clean out your refrigerator/pantry.

Depending on how long you’ll be away, you’ll want to make sure that you aren’t coming home to spoiled food. Take a quick scan of your cabinets and refrigerator and toss anything that has the potential to go bad.

4. Tidy up.

After your travels, you won’t want to return to a messy, dirty, or cluttered space. Take the extra time to deep clean your living space so you can continue relaxing when you come back.

5. Ensure your safety.

Before you take those final steps out the door, make sure everything is properly locked, shut down, or unplugged. Be mindful of windows and doors. Turn off and unplug any appliances or cords that aren’t necessary to reduce the risk of fire and save on energy. And we also recommend not announcing your vacation plans publicly. 

By following this list, you’ll have peace of mind on your trip knowing that everything is taken care of at home. Safe travels!

The post What You Should Do With Your Rental When You’re On Vacation appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

So you’re thinking about renting! Maybe you’re just starting to look, or maybe you’re about to move in. Wherever you are on your journey, it’s really important to consider purchasing renters insurance. In fact, you may be required to purchase renters insurance before you move in. This not only ensures that you, personally, are covered but also adds an extra layer of protection for the owner. It’s also important to note that you may be required to purchase liability insurance as well. Similar to renters insurance, it adds an extra layer of protection for the owner in the case of negligence or irresponsibility of the resident. Here’s what you need to know. 

What is renter’s insurance?

Your landlord has their own separate insurance policy covering the building itself, but in terms of you, the tenant, their insurance policy may not cover your personal belongings, loss or destruction in the event of peril, burglary, or personal injury on the property. Purchasing your own renters insurance policy will protect your belongings in the event of a mishap. 

Consider an event like a fire. While the landlord has insurance to protect the cost of the building, that insurance will not cover the cost of your personal belongings. Renters insurance will likely reimburse you for those items, either in the form of replacement or equivalent cash value. 

In addition to covering your personal belongings, your renters insurance may also cover costs like hotel bills, if your rental space is deemed unsafe to inhabit. This could save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in expenses. 

Moreover, in the unfortunate event that someone is visiting you at your rental property and they get injured, your renters insurance may also cover the medical bills or any associated costs regarding the accident.

Why do you need renters insurance?

In some cases, you may not think your personal belongings are worth that much or hold that much value. But when you think about all the electronics, furniture, appliances, etc., you own and fill your space with, it could easily add up to thousands of dollars. No one hopes that a disaster or tragic incident will strike, but it’s best to be prepared in the event that it does.

How much does it cost?

Renters insurance is extremely cost-effective. A survey by the Insurance Information Institute found that the average annual premium for renters insurance is less than $200. Compare that to the damages you could incur from losing what you own, and it’s truly a no-brainer. 

What it really comes down to is risk management, and ultimately, renters insurance benefits both the tenant and the landlord. It ensures your belongings are protected and that you aren’t liable for financial expenses should an event occur beyond your control. 

Ultimately, we recommend that you do your research, reach out to your landlord, and then find a policy that works for you!

The post What is Renter’s Insurance and Why Do You Need It? appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a timely reminder that caring for your mental well-being starts in the spaces you spend the most time. While routines, relationships, and support systems all play an important role, your home environment can have a powerful impact on how you feel day to day.

Creating a space that feels calm, comfortable, and supportive doesn’t require a complete overhaul. Small, intentional changes can make a meaningful difference, especially during more challenging seasons. If you’re looking for simple ways to create a home that supports your mental health, here are a few practical tips to help you get started.

Create a nook in your apartment home. 

This area can include inspirational books, grounding tools like electric candles and other sensory items, journals with your favorite pens, and blankets and pillows to make you feel comfortable. You can use this spot as your at-home getaway or a cove for unwinding – but it should serve as a designated space for you and your well-being. 

Add plants to your home. 

Did you know all of the benefits having plants in your apartment home brings to you? Having plants not only adds a great aesthetic to your apartment home, but it can help reduce stress, be therapeutic, and help you feel a sense of accomplishment. All things that can help you improve your mental health! Read more on this topic here. 

Take a 30-minute walk outside. 

According to Mental Health America, “research shows that being in nature can increase energy levels, reduce depression, and boost well-being.” Plus, this is a great way to get to know your community. Try to incorporate a window of time each day (weather permitting, of course!) to get outside and take a short walk, perhaps listening to your favorite songs or podcast. 

Spend time with friends and family. 

Your home plays an important role in how you connect with others. Whether you’re welcoming loved ones into your apartment or using your space to stay connected, those relationships matter. According to Mayo Clinic, strong social connections can boost happiness, strengthen your sense of belonging, and help reduce stress.

Treat yourself to self-care. 

Either at home or out, engaging in a self-care activity has been proven to “eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, increase happiness, and more,“ says the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. But remember, an act of self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant! Things like trying to get a full 8 hours of sleep or eating a balanced diet are just as much self-care as going to a spa. 

Take care of yourselves!

The post Tips to Improve Your Mental Health for Mental Health Awareness Week appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

In today’s world, so many more people are asking about how to be more environmentally conscious. We find this to be the case when we talk to people looking to rent, particularly in more urban areas. In some cases, buildings themselves will have special features that will contribute to the cause. One example is installing solar panels, such as at our Middleton Station, an apartment community in Middleton WI, where they utilize solar power to heat their hot water. However, there are so many ways that you can be more environmentally conscious at  a micro level within your rental home. Here are some ideas…

Limit your water consumption

Take a shower instead of a bath. Only turn on the shower when you are ready to get in. Wash your dishes by hand. There are so many ways to conserve water within your home.

Turn off the lights

This seems like such an obvious one…but when you live in an apartment, sometimes it’s easy to think about the smaller space and think that the additional power doesn’t matter. But if we had tenants at all 500 of our properties turning off their lights automatically, we would save so much power and stress on the environment. 

Turn off your power strips

If you are going away for the weekend, or even just leaving for a day at the office, take a moment to turn off your power strips.

Grow your own food

Utilize those balconies! You could have a couple of small plants in pots or we have even had tenants who created vertical planters out of pallets to grow their own herbs in. 

Recycle

Nearly all apartment communities have both a trash and recycling bin. Pick up a second garbage bin and separate your trash before taking it outside.

Overall, there are so many micro ways you can be more environmentally conscious. What ways do you try to be more environmentally friendly?

The post How To Be More Environmentally Friendly as a Renter appeared first on Wisconsin Management Company, Inc. Blog.

This week on the blog, we’re talking about compliance. There are many components to Property Management, from maintenance and leasing to resident services and financial oversight. One of the most important, yet least known, is our in-house Compliance Department. 

What is compliance, and why does it matter?

Compliance is the ongoing process of adhering to external laws, regulations, and industry standards, as well as internal policies and ethical codes. In property management, that means doing the application and re-certification processes correctly, which in turn keeps the property in good standing with those rules and funding sources.

So what do they do? 

Our in-house Compliance Department certifies income and expenses for all applicants and residents, ensuring program compliance with a variety of funding programs, including Rural Development, Section 42 Tax Credit, and HUD Programs, such as project-based Section 8 and HOME. 

This team of experts, headed by our Compliance Manager, includes credentialed Certified Occupancy Specialists (COS) and Spectrum Training Award Recipients (S.T.A.R). The WMC compliance department manages all aspects of the application and re-certification process to make sure we are doing things the right way. Their expertise ensures that we’re not just meeting standards, but we’re staying ahead of regulatory changes and industry best practices.

While much of their work happens behind the scenes, it plays a critical role in keeping our communities running smoothly. Thanks to the entire Compliance Department for all that you do! 

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